Hey there! I’m Jio, your laid-back travel buddy who loves exploring new places, soaking in different cultures, and sharing fun insights along the way. There’s something magical about traveling—the way it introduces you to new perspectives, unforgettable moments, and, let’s be honest, really good food.
I don’t like rushing or being flustered on trips, and if you prefer a more relaxed way of exploring, this guide will be right up your alley, and while I’m no Santa Claus or Jeff Bezos when it comes to racking up air miles, I’ve roamed enough to share some handy tips to make your trip smoother and more memorable.
These are my favorite ways to experience the world, straight from my personal playbook. First stop: Osaka, Japan!
Osaka, like Tokyo, is a buzzing city famous for its food scene, so much so that it’s nicknamed “The Nation’s Kitchen.” It’s got all the shopping and restaurants you could want, but with a more laid-back feel, making it perfect for introverts like me who appreciate a bit of breathing space.
Planning a trip to Osaka? Here are some simple travel guides for when you visit this charming city that blends modern urban living with culture and tradition:
1. Maximize Public Transportation
Like any big Japanese city, Osaka’s train system is excellent but can feel overwhelming, especially if you don’t speak Japanese. Don’t stress—English signs and multi-language ticket machines make it manageable. Trains are the best way to get around, and the airport train gets you into the city for just over 1000 yen.
Osaka also makes a great base for visiting nearby cities. A quick train ride (as little as 15 minutes by bullet train) gets you to Kyoto for a dose of historic charm, Nara for some up-close encounters with wild deer, or Kobe for, well, Kobe beef. Oh, and if you’ve got family or are a Harry Potter or Super Mario fan, Universal Studios Japan is just around the corner.
2. Where to Stay
Finding the right place to stay in Osaka depends on your travel style. If you want to be right in the heart of the action but still get some peace and quiet, stay just outside Shinsaibashi. It’s a short walk to Dotonbori but not smack in the middle of the madness, making it a great balance of accessibility and tranquility.
For those who prefer convenience and easy transportation access, staying near Umeda/Osaka Station is a great option. This area is packed with malls, restaurants, and offers easy connections to other cities, making it ideal for travelers who plan to hop around Japan. Whether you're a shopaholic, a foodie, or just someone who likes a well-located base, both of these areas offer the best of Osaka without the unnecessary stress.
3. Eat Everything
Osaka rightfully owns the title of “The Nation’s Kitchen.” This city is all about food, so eat as much as you can. Takoyaki (octopus balls) and okonomiyaki (savory pancakes) are must-tries, and Dotonbori is where it’s at for street food. People will gladly line up for an hour just for a fresh batch of takoyaki, but if you see a shorter queue, take the win and go for it.
For cute food experiences, check out the Pokémon Café or Kirby Café inside department stores in Shinsaibashi. If fancy is more your thing, there are Michelin-starred sushi spots that will blow your mind. And for a proper local experience, hit up an izakaya for some late-night drinks and grilled goodies or a yakiniku spot to grill your own meat.
4. Shop ‘til You Drop
Shopping in Osaka is next-level. The whole city feels like a giant street market, mixed with trendy boutiques, local gems, and huge department stores.
Dotonbori and Shinsaibashi are the big names, but if you want something different, check out Amerika-mura (Osaka’s version of Harajuku) for vintage and thrift stores. Anime, tech, and gaming geeks should head straight to Den-Den Town, an area packed with specialty shops that stretch as far as the eye can see.
For the ultimate “buy everything” experience, Don Quijote is your go-to—it’s basically a chaotic wonderland of discounted goodies. The central location in Ebisu Tower even has a Ferris wheel you can ride! But if you want a quieter shopping spree, check out Matsukiyo for skincare, snacks, and local products without the crazy crowds.
5. Sightseeing Tips and Tricks
Osaka isn’t huge, and most must-see spots are clustered together, so you can cover a lot in just a couple of days. But not everything is worth your time.
Osaka Castle? Stunning, but no need to spend hours lining up to go inside—the real beauty is in its exterior and the surrounding park. Dotonbori? Fun but crazy crowded, so if you’re not in the mood to push through waves of people, consider checking out nearby side streets instead.
Shinsaibashi’s smaller alleys have hidden gems filled with local restaurants, away from the tourist traps. If you’re into high fashion, Orange Street near Amerika-mura is full of trendy boutiques. Once you’ve ticked off the big tourist spots, go find the local hangouts—that’s where Osaka really shines.
Why Osaka?
Osaka may not be as big as Tokyo, but it packs just as much culture and excitement in just a few streets, and the atmosphere feels much more relaxed and welcoming. While it may not have as much historical spots as its big city counterparts like Kyoto, it makes up for it with near-endless shopping choices and a vibrant food scene that makes it worth visiting.